 On Saturday, November 22, 2025, St. Peter’s Catholic Church welcomed the Diocese of Calgary’s second Renewal Gathering for Lay Associations. Co-chaired by Ryan Schmidt and Janet Lymer, the gathering brought together 96 registered participants representing 41 lay associations. The room carried a simple message: the Holy Spirit has already planted a wide range of charisms in our Diocese, and renewal will grow faster when we stop working in isolation. The day began where renewal must begin: at Mass. From there, we moved into a steady rhythm of testimony and table dialogue, starting with the Diocese’s Year 3 Renewal video, “Lighting the Fire of Renewal.” Its message: You are called, You matter, You belong set the tone for everything that followed: encounter is personal, witness is public, and both require conversion. 
 Lay associations are not add-ons to parish life. They are the baptized living the Church’s mission through discipleship, service, and evangelization across southern Alberta. Gathering together made this visible, as diverse charisms met in prayer and dialogue, revealing how our gifts are meant to complement one another. Through testimony and Conversations in the Spirit, participants listened deeply and discerned where the Lord may be leading next.
Carla Hamarsnes: Renewal begins on our knees Carla Hamarsnes (Apostoli Viae) offered a candid testimony of returning to the Church after leaving as a young adult. She described the intensity of her search, daily Mass, reading, online formation, events, devotions, and a strong sacramental life, yet still feeling that deep interior transformation remained out of reach. The turning point came through daily mental prayer, setting aside intentional time and space for Christ. Her witness highlighted a clear message: parish renewal is sustained not by programs, but by personal, faithful prayer.
Walking forward together If there was one clear takeaway from the day, it was this: renewal will not be “delivered” to us. We will live it into being: through prayer, through encounter, and through witness. Lay associations are already carrying much of this work across the Diocese. The invitation now is to strengthen our collaboration: share resources, cross-promote events, partner with parishes, and keep returning to the Eucharist and to personal prayer as the source of fruitfulness. As we continue walking this renewal journey, called, loved, and sent, may our many charisms become one clear witness: Jesus Christ is alive, and His Church is being renewed.
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The Red Mass, which was brought back to Calgary by the St. Thomas More Lawyers Guild in 2014, has historical origins in Paris in 1245, or possibly began with Pope Innocent IV in 1243, and is recorded to have taken place in England in 1310. Regardless of who began the tradition, it has been meaningful in Canada since it was celebrated in Quebec in 1926 to highlight the opening of the Courts. It is said to be “red” because of the scarlet robes traditionally worn by English Supreme Court justices, and with a deeper theological meaning, symbolizing the coming of the Holy Spirit and commissioning of the Apostles. “There is a hunger for fellowship with those who share in the same work, and who share a passion for their faith,” said co-organizer Tom Ross, acknowledging that the celebration of the Eucharist together will be the high point. Cardinal Collins is expected to deliver the homily at Mass and will speak about Church topics of recent interest at the reception following Mass, which requires a ticket. When he was young, Collins, whose mother worked for a lawyer, said he “had thought of being a lawyer,” himself. “To speak and to be learned in the law, I just thought I would be a lawyer like Thomas More. I thought that would be wonderful.” With admiration for those in the legal profession, Collins will speak on the key elements that made St. Thomas More an example to follow, not only for his time, but for ours. He emphasized that a key commonality that legal professionals today share with the era of Thomas More, who lived from 1478 until he was executed by Henry VIII in 1535, is the issue of conscience. “We know exactly what he thought about conscience because he wrote letters from the dungeon in the tower to his dear daughter Margaret. He explains in great detail what conscience means,” he said. “He said he had studied the issue (of Henry VIII’s desire to divorce Catherine of Aragon, and make himself the head of the Church) and was clear on the history of the Church, and the fathers of the Church, and it was clear that Henry’s claim was false.” “It wasn’t just his ego,” said Collins, referencing media depictions of St. Thomas More’s individual decision, “it was that he had studied the case. Con-science means ‘with knowledge,’ so it wasn’t his ego, it was the truth.” In the present day, Collins said he recognized that there is a lot of pressure on lawyers to conform in ways not always aligned with our Christian faith. “That’s a lot of pressure. They’ve got – like Thomas More – families to think about.” Cardinal Collins pointed out that St. John Fisher, a contemporary of Thomas More, who was also imprisoned and martyred, “could be courageous because he was a celibate and he didn’t have a family to lose.” “I would say that because he had a family to think about, it was in some ways more difficult for Thomas to lose everything – his position and his money. The money was for the sake of his family.” Collins emphasized that Henry VIII and his counterparts made great efforts to try to convince Thomas, including to use his daughter Margaret to appeal to his emotions, but that he could not simply change his mind. “He could not live a lie. He was an honourable man.” Comparing More’s troubles to today, Collins said, “I would say there’s a lot of pressure on politicians and lawyers, and that they have to be like Thomas. Thomas was careful in how he did things, and he was faithful. He didn’t take unnecessary risks, but when push came to shove, he stood up for the faith.” Cardinal Collins looks forward to the Red Mass and sounded confident that he could find a lot to say about one of his personal heroes. “He's a great hero, and there are wonderful lawyers and politicians, and so we should celebrate them and celebrate a model of someone who did it very well and who lives forever. In all the struggles, we can look to Thomas More for guidance.”
Written by Jessica Cyr for the St. Thomas More Lawyers Guild
 Seeking the quietness in the day, in the midst of your usual routines, The Seven Sisters Apostolate is a Eucharistic Association of women who feel called to strengthen the church by ensuring that a Holy Hour is prayed each day of the week throughout the year for the sole intentions of a specific priest in their Parish. The Anchoress of our Apostolate is charged with assigning each sister one Holy Hour to pray alone before the Blessed Sacrament for a pastor chosen for us. Although we pray alone, we gather once a year, close to the Feast of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, to celebrate with our pastors and sisters and to renew our commitment to the Apostolate. On June 28 this year, the Apostolate at St. Luke’s Parish held our third annual Potluck Lunch at the church. Our Pastors, Fr. Fernando Genogaling, Fr. Derek Remus, and Fr. Barnabas Esegine, joined us and offered thanks for our prayers for their intentions. We were grateful for the opportunity to “break bread” together, and judging by the volume of chatter in the room, it was clear that our pastors and all of the sisters of the Apostolate enjoyed each other’s company. To date, the Seven Sisters Apostolate at St. Luke’s Parish has 42 sisters who pray every week for the priests who shepherd us and for Bishop Rev. William McGrattan. Although our commitment to pray for our pastors is for one year, the members of the apostolate may choose to recommit for a further year, as many of our sisters have done.
History of the Seven Sisters Apostolate This Apostolate was started in St. Paul, Minnesota, in 2011 by Jeanette Howe and Fr. Joseph Johnson. Through their prayers and advocacy, the Apostolate has grown from a group of seven women to over 2600 groups on six continents, in 50 States in the USA, and in almost all of the Provinces of Canada. If your Parish is interested in this ministry and would like more information about the Seven Sisters Apostolate, please visit sevensistersapostolate.org We thank our anchoress, who belongs to the Seat of Wisdom presidium of the Legion of Mary, and as part of her Spiritual Works of Mercy, is committed to starting this Apostolate at our Parish. We are grateful for her leadership and the opportunity to be part of a powerful prayer group whose commitment to prayer for the pastors of our Parish has enriched our own lives. Written by D. Gibson, member of St. Luke’s Parish in Calgary.
Photos courtesy of Victor Panlilio, and The Sisters of the Apostolate who pray for the Parish priests and our Bishop. In this Year of Jubilee, we are pleased to share inspiring videos from St. Anthony’s Parish in Drumheller. The parish has been actively embodying the life of Christ by nurturing ministries that strengthen faith and serve both parishioners and the wider community. Below are a series of video and stories shared by St. Anthony's Parish in Drumheller: Fr. Lukas Drapal shows his deep spiritual and communal life within the parish, as well as his spiritual leadership in guiding parishioners on their journey of faith through teachings, sacraments, and pastoral care. He explains his dedication as a mediator between God and the community, celebrating the Eucharist, administering the sacraments, and offering prayers that uplift and inspire. Beyond the liturgy, he helps comfort, counsel, guide and provide support during life's challenges and celebrations alike. Fr. Lukas Drapal embodies the love of Christ, serving as a shepherd who guides, nurtures, and leads the parish toward holiness and service. Couples for Christ Drumheller is a vibrant community committed to nurturing and strengthening marriages and families through faith-based initiatives. As part of the larger Couples for Christ organization from Calgary South A1, the CFC Drumheller focuses on fostering deep spiritual connections among couples while promoting the teachings of Jesus Christ in their daily lives. St. Anthony's Pastoral Care Ministry is a vital ministry of the parish that aims to support and guide individuals and families within the faith community. Through one-on-one support and service in the hospital, senior homes, parish activities, and Bell Tower Fundraising programs, like spearheading the Shrove Tuesday and St. Anthony's Feast, pastoral care encourages connection, healing, and growth. It serves as a powerful reminder of the church's commitment to serve others, embodying the teachings of Christ by reaching out to those in need and nurturing relationships within the community. Committed to serving both the Church and those in need, the Catholic League of Women (CWL) engages in charitable activities, community service, and faith-building initiatives. By fostering camaraderie among members, the CWL promotes values of charity, unity, fraternity, and patriotism. Through their various programs and events, they offer scholarships to young women in the parish pursuing higher education. The CWL strives to make a positive impact while living out their mission of serving their parish, supporting families, and promoting social justice in line with Catholic teachings. St. Anthony's Drumheller Knights of Columbus is a steadfast fraternal organization that plays a vital role in the Drumheller community. The Knights are devoted to serving both the parish and those in need. The Knights of Drumheller are engaging in charitable actions and communal events, such as pancake breakfasts and spaghetti suppers, to raise funds for various charities, most particularly in the Bell Tower restoration.  Not one, but four groups of women came together to study and reflect on the teachings of St. Teresa of Avila and how they apply in their lives. They arrived with beaming smiles that lit up every corner of the parish basement, eager to learn. These women are part of ENDOW (Educating on the Nature and Dignity of a Woman) at St. Albert the Great parish. Endow was founded in 2003 in Denver, Colorado, by Betsy Considine, Marilyn Coors, and Terry Polakovic. It is a Catholic apostolate that calls women together to deepen their faith by exploring the timeless wisdom of the Church. Drawing from the writings of Pope St. John Paul II on the “new feminism,” the founders emphasized that every woman should recognize her God-given dignity and the unique gifts she brings to the world. Today, Endow reaches more than 40,000 women in over 130 dioceses worldwide through study and community.
Participants greeted each other warmly before sitting at their assigned tables. The atmosphere was alive with openness and readiness to share their spiritual journey. Each woman took turns reading two to three sentences from the chapter, followed by reflection questions. At first, the conversation was serious and thoughtful, but as it went on, laughter and light-hearted moments filled the room. It was an ordinary conversation, yet every word shared a firm conviction: to trust Jesus with all their hearts. Sitting among them was spiritually enriching; it was a fruitful opportunity to learn alongside faith-filled, insightful women about how to deepen one’s faith in God. One conversation about obedience became especially meaningful. We discussed how obeying God makes difficult things easier, and that His grace is always present when we follow His will. The moderator said, “If I persevere, good fruit will come because God is good.” “He wants the best for me because He loves me. I trust Him,” shared Kaitlin, a participant at my table. The members shared their different perspectives on obedience, but ultimately agreed it meant listening to God’s voice and saying ‘yes’ to Him. It requires letting go of the world’s pull toward pleasure, fame, and wealth, and becoming a follower of Christ. Though difficult at times, the gift of perseverance and God’s grace make it possible.  When reading one of St. Teresa of Avila’s letters about facing temptations and attacks from Satan, the women spoke openly about their thoughts. “It’s terrifying when you really think about it,” said Kaitlin. “I don’t want to think about it. I just pretend it’s not there. I need to focus on the beauty of God, which is what you’re meant to do,” shared another. We reflected that God’s power is far greater than the enemy’s. They discussed the importance of prayer, penance, and suffering as weapons against evil, and the need to discern when something feels spiritually “off”. The group provided a safe space to share insights, explore their beliefs, ask questions, and affirm one another’s spiritual journey. “It’s given me a little bit of a boost to be able to talk to other people, especially about prayer, because it’s an overwhelming thing sometimes to go through alone,” shared Kaitlin. “Thanks to this talk, especially to other women and mothers who are going through similar struggles in their lives.”
Participant Liza Zavisha added, “Anytime we can grow in our faith, because it’s one step closer to God.” “We want to keep learning and growing, and doing it with other like-minded women is such a gift.” By the end of the night, I felt spiritually refreshed and renewed. I left with joy, encouragement, and a richer understanding of God’s work in my life.
Written by Mary Joy Mendonza for Faithfully. Photos courtesy of Mary Joy.
 Written by Fr. Mariusz Sztuk, SDS It is with a profound sense of purpose and joy that I share with you our unique spiritual journey with the Men's ministry God Squad - Heroic Men of Canada. It isn't a retreat confined to four walls, but a pilgrimage of the open road, a journey by motorcycle across the vast landscapes of Canada and the United States, visiting five or six national shrines and churches. More than just a physical ride, it is a spiritual adventure deeply inspired by the lives of saints, particularly Blessed Francis Jordan and Blessed Mary of the Apostles, the courageous founders of the Salvatorian family. The year 2025 has been declared a Jubilee Year by the Holy Father, a time specifically dedicated to the profound theme of hope. In our rich Christian tradition, pilgrimage stands as a privileged and powerful form of prayer during such a sacred year. A pilgrimage is a deliberate stepping out of the ordinary rhythms of daily life to encounter God more deeply, on the road, in the quiet contemplation of the journey, in the hallowed embrace of sacred places, and in the profound communion shared with brothers. This is precisely why we have conceived this special Motorcycle Pilgrimage of Hope. Our route will take us to national shrines of Canada that resonate with our Salvatorian spirit, places that powerfully remind us of our fundamental call as Catholics: to make the Saviour known to all people, everywhere, and by every means possible. This journey is a tangible expression of our faith, a testament to our commitment to Christ in a world that desperately needs His light. The Journey's Structure: Fueling Body and Soul Today (July 28, 2025) is Day One of our journey. Each stop along our route will follow a simple yet profound structure, designed to deepen our spiritual resolve and understanding:
The overarching intention of this pilgrimage is to discover, deepen, and strengthen our vocation, to uncover the best version of ourselves, which is, in truth, God's version of us. Traveling in the company of saints and fellow pilgrims will provide a unique crucible for reflecting on this divine call, challenging us to grow into the person God created us to be. How you can join us: A brotherhood of prayer
Even if the open road on two wheels isn't your path, your participation is vital and deeply valued. We invite you to join us spiritually by sending us your prayer intentions. We will carry these intentions with us, remembering you and your needs at every shrine and sacred place we visit. You can send your intentions to: [email protected] or on the Heroic Brotherhood https://brotherhood.heroicmen.org/c/prayer-request Know that you will be remembered in our prayers at every stop, forging a powerful spiritual brotherhood that transcends physical distance. A word of thanks and a call to action I am profoundly grateful to God for this extraordinary opportunity and to all those who have contributed their time and effort to bring this project to fruition. Special thanks are extended to the friends who have dedicated themselves to this vision, and to God's Squad Canada, for their support and friendship. Start the engines of your hearts, open them wide to the grace of God, and let us ride together into this Jubilee Year with unwavering hope!  Father's Day began as it usually does for me: I woke up early, enjoyed my coffee, and listened to Jeff Cavins’ daily reflection as part of my morning routine. This particular Father’s Day was filled with warm messages from my children and grandchildren. Attending Mass with my family, including my two-and-a-half-year-old twin granddaughters, added a special touch to the day. During the service, I held one of my granddaughters so she could see the procession and opening prayers. Before long, she nestled her head on my shoulder and fell asleep. It had been quite some time since I held a sleeping child for that long; my youngest is nearly 20. As the Mass progressed and her weight grew heavier in my arms, I found myself reflecting on the deeper weight of fatherhood and what it truly means to create a secure environment where a child can rest peacefully. Echoes of St. Joseph My thoughts drifted to St. Joseph fleeing to Egypt with the child Jesus. I imagined him, acutely aware of the dangers ahead, the uncertainty of the road, and his unwavering commitment to protect and provide for his family. Similarly, I reflected on how my own children had often felt secure enough to fall asleep in my arms, blissfully unaware of the struggles my wife, Michele, and I faced. This reminded me of our duty to protect their innocence against the world's misleading influences. Honouring the Past, Embracing the Present After Mass, the girls woke up happy and refreshed, ready for brunch. Before heading home, we made a meaningful stop at my stepmother’s house to replace the Canadian flag that my late father used to fly. The old flag was worn and faded. My brother and his family joined us, and I had the honour of lowering the old flag and raising the new one, sharing the moment with all my children through a video call. It was a small but powerful way to honour my dad, and mark Father’s Day in his memory. Modern Challenges and Pro-Life Convictions Later that day, we welcomed a visitor, my granddaughters’ father. My daughter wants him to be involved in their lives, and we’re supporting her in that choice. Like many families, we've had to navigate some difficuflt conversations. Early on, there was uncertainty around the pregnancy, and perspectives differed. Those moments weren’t easy, but they deepened our own commitment to stand for life. We recognized the need to support our daughter and provide a safe environment for her to raise her children. That evening, our pastor, Fr. Fabio, joined us for supper. The house was full, full of movement, laughter, and the sound of the twins running joyfully through their grandparents’ home. It wasn’t a perfect picture, but it was real, and filled with grace. It is a reminder that even in complicated situations, God is present, quietly working through love, forgiveness, and the slow building of trust. Reflecting God’s Love The weight of fatherhood is ever-present as we strive to reflect the love of God the Father to our children. We often fall short, and recognize that we can always do better. Reflecting on St. Joseph’s journey to Egypt, I wonder how he persevered, facing the unknown with a young Jesus running and laughing, oblivious to the dangers, yet protected by a loving father on earth and in heaven. Conclusion Father’s Day provided a poignant reminder of the joys and challenges of fatherhood. From the simple act of holding a sleeping child to navigating complex family dynamics, the role of a father is a profound reflection of God’s love and protection. As we honour the fathers in our lives, let us also remember the example of St. Joseph, who faced uncertainty with unwavering faith and love, ensuring the safety and well-being of his family. Writen by Sean Lynn, God Squad Canada & Heroicmen
Submitted by Guillermo and Monica Fiebelkorn, Schoenstatt Apostolic Movement
 Throughout the Gospels, we read of people’s encounters with Christ, where He invites them to “come and see” who He is. Jesus continues to extend this invitation to each of us today — but how easy is it for us to “stay” in relationship with Him when trials come our way? Furthermore, what does it look like for us to follow in Christ’s footsteps, seeing our interactions with others as opportunities to reveal the Father's love to them? The theme of this year’s Beloved Daughters Ministry conference is “Come and Stay: Relationships Rooted in Love.” As Rikka, Maria, and Jessica (the founders of Beloved Daughters Ministry) were praying and reflecting on the theme, they considered the many roles women hold. As daughters, friends, mothers, and sisters, women are presented with ample opportunities throughout daily life to cultivate and maintain authentic relationships. Yet often, comparison, fear, insecurities, and responsibilities can get in the way of developing these relationships. Maria, Rikka, and Jessica have been friends for over ten years. They can attest to the challenges of nurturing their friendship while fulfilling multiple roles and responsibilities. In the midst of it all, they strive to remind each other that disagreements are opportunities to grow in virtue — to help one another become saints and truly see each other in God’s image. Having previously volunteered together in youth and young adult ministry, we saw the formation of Beloved Daughters Ministry as an opportunity to journey alongside other women as we grow in our identity as beloved daughters of God. As we’ve mentioned at just about every one of our events, we are on the same journey as every other woman — we don’t have it all figured out.
Slowly but surely, each of us is learning that every disagreement offers the opportunity to stay, be present, and see things from another’s point of view. We can each attest that this is often challenging and frustrating in the moment. Yet by God’s grace, He continues to open our eyes to truly see one another as daughters of Christ, rather than turning inward on ourselves. This has expanded our capacity to extend love and mercy to each other. Vulnerability has led us to listen more deeply, empathize, and understand. There is a natural delight that comes with sharing life and choosing to stay with the friend placed before us. Planning ministry events together reminds us that we are on the same team. We share the same mission: to grow in love for Christ and to share that love with others. This ministry has provided space and opportunities for us to grow in holiness and virtue. More recently, as we plan our upcoming conference, we have also been reminded of the simple joy of having fun together! Sharing laughter has helped us not to take ourselves so seriously — and to remember that when we live under the freedom of being beloved daughters, God’s grace makes up for all that we lack. Within the Father’s love, there is freedom to make mistakes and to allow Him to transform them into opportunities to increase our capacity to give and receive love. Written by Jessica, Beloved Daughters Ministry, Calgary.
 On Saturday, January 25, 2025, in the context of our diocesan Renewal, Ascension Catholic Parish with Regnum Christi hosted a faith formation day entitled Building a Better Life. This “Integral Formation” Day provided an opportunity to nourish various aspects of the Christian personality. It touched upon four themes, each corresponding to one of four “pillars” of development, namely our human, spiritual, apostolic, and intellectual formation. The presentations offered insights as well as practical tools to deepen the daily living of our faith. The day began with a session on The Language of Apology, led by Eileen Coady. She explored the profound impact of sincerity and vulnerability in relationships. Later on in the morning, Fr. Janick Caouette, LC spoke on Living Our Baptismal Promises. This delved into the extended rite of baptism from the Roman Missal. “Understanding more of the baptismal promises was incredibly insightful,” said one participant, “Everyone should hear them.” Michelle Hoffman guided participants through Ignatian Meditation Using Art, providing a structured and transformative way to pray. We listen to God in his Word, with art helping to open new intuitions, through Beauty. 
The closing session was an invitation to continue learning the Faith. David Keep delivered a moving talk on Intellectual Formation, sharing how learning about his Catholic faith led to his conversion—and to his ongoing journey, of continual conversion. His testimony highlighted the call to strive for holiness in everyday life, and it was “a reminder that growth takes time, guidance, support, and grace.” The day concluded with opportunities for fellowship and moments of quiet reflection, allowing participants to integrate the day’s insights into their own spiritual journeys. Each participant was also given a Jubilee virtue card, encouraging them to entrust themselves to the care of a patron saint for the year. Ascension Catholic Parish plans on continuing to provide content that is engaging, thoughtful, and relevant so that parishioners might develop different areas of their lives. As an activity aimed at personal growth and formation, the Formation Day fosters a greater awareness of the diocesan renewal by both teaching the great story of Jesus and His Church, as well as listening to others’ lived experiences of our life as Catholics. The lay association Regnum Christi was instrumental in organizing this event, in its mission to educate and prepare youth and families for joy-filled lives of mission, service and prayer through excellent integral formation. Other follow-up activities will be arranged over the course of this Jubilee year. Written by Fr. John Paul Luxbacher, LC. To receive invitations to Regnum Christi activities, please feel free to contact [email protected], with the tag “Formation Day.”
Today, on the Feast of Our Lady of Lourdes, the Church observes the World Day of Prayer for the Sick, a day dedicated to lifting up those who suffer and those who care for them. The Jubilee of Hope makes this year's celebration particularly special. In this spirit of hope and renewal, members of the Calgary Catholic Medical Association (CCMA) gathered on February 1, 2025 for their annual breakfast at Heritage Park Railway Café. With Bishop William McGrattan as the keynote speaker, the morning was a rich opportunity for reflection on the theme of holiness, service, and the integration of faith in the medical profession. As Bishop McGrattan highlighted, this jubilee year is indeed an opportunity for healthcare professionals to focus on the perennial challenge to integrate faith in one's life and work of service.
Becoming Beacons of Hope Bishop McGrattan's talk, "Mission of Hope," was a real call to action – an invitation to those in medical field to become beacons of hope. He wasn't just talking about expertise, but about living our faith openly. He reminded us what Pope Francis said in Gaudete et Exsultate (Rejoice and Be Glad) – that holiness isn't some far-off, impossible dream for a chosen few, but something we're all called to. “Holiness is the most attractive face of the Church,” he shared, quoting Gaudete et Exsultate. “To be holy does not require being a bishop, a priest, or a religious. We are frequently tempted to think that holiness is only for those who can withdraw from ordinary affairs to spend much time in prayer. That is not the case. We are called to be holy by living our life with love and by bearing witness in everything we do, wherever we find ourselves.” (GE No. 14) He added, "For healthcare professionals, your daily work is more than a job—it is a vocation, a path to holiness. The long hours, the difficult decisions, the emotional weight of your work—these can all be opportunities to bring Christ’s love into the lives of the sick and suffering. But this kind of witness does not happen by accident. It requires intentionality, prayer, and a commitment to growing in faith."
Bishop McGrattan highlighted that this Jubilee Year is an extraordinary time of grace. Pope Francis, in his Bull of Indiction Spes Non Confundit (Hope Does Not Disappoint - Rom 5:5), calls the faithful to a renewed commitment to the Christian life. Read also: Pope Francis' message for the 33rd World Day of the Sick “Every jubilee year is an invitation to be more intentional in our living of the Christian life. To renew our life and to focus on the many ways that we receive the gift of God’s grace. It is a year to experience the call to conversion, to strengthen the living of the faith, and deepen our relationship with God,” Bishop said. For Catholic healthcare workers, this means resisting the temptation to separate their faith from their profession. The Second Vatican Council warned against this tendency: “One of the most serious errors of our time is to see that religion and faith are not just acts of worship or simply fulfilling moral obligations and that one cannot simply engage in human affairs and think that such activities are divorced or separated from one’s religious life and faith” (Gaudium et Spes No. 43). Rather, faith must permeate every aspect of life—including work. Pope Francis cautioned against an “excess of activity” that lacks adequate spiritual grounding, warning that “without this spiritual permeation our activity can be tiring, burdensome, dissatisfying, and become an unbearable fatigue.” (Evangelii Gaudium No. 82) A Recipe for Spiritual Resilience How can healthcare professionals cultivate this integration of faith and work? Each one of us is called to do the personal work to grow in Holiness. The bishop emphasized that the willingness to grow in this way is an act of love towards God. The ‘recipe‘ he proposed can be found in The Six Daily Habits book by Fr. John O’Brien, SJ, who lives at the Martyr’s Shrine in Midland , Ontario.
Dr. Monique exlaimed, "It was very helpful for us to have the Bishop role model for us some of the daily habits he uses to carry out His own personal Mission as our Bishop. He spoke to us from his heart, which is a powerful way to teach an important message." As we mark this World Day of Prayer for the Sick and journey through the Jubilee Year of Hope, let us take to heart the words of Pope Francis: “Let the grace of your baptism bear fruit in the path of holiness. Let everything be open to God; turn to him in every situation. Do not be dismayed, for you can do this in the power of the Holy Spirit.” (GE No. 15) For those in the medical field who seek a community of faith and support, the Calgary Catholic Medical Association extends an open invitation: Join us in living out this mission of hope. Photos courtesy of Calgary Catholic Medical Association. For more information about Calgary Catholic Medical Association, visit: catholicmedyyc.wordpress.com
 Denis Grady was a beacon of hope, a musician of the soul, and a servant of compassion whose life was a testament to the transformative power of faith and love. Born in Peterborough, Ontario in 1952, his family moved to Oshawa in 1962. It was in Oshawa that Denis learned to play guitar, and began performing at high school dances. Denis's journey was marked by an encounter with God in his teenage years that would shape his life thereafter. He moved west to Edmonton and eventually Calgary in the 1970s. As a gifted musician and spiritual leader, Denis began to use his music as a bridge to connect hearts and heal wounds. With two gospel albums — "Running Too Long" and "Grace in the Strangest Places" — he shared messages of redemption and hope that resonated deeply with those who heard them. He and his guitar became instruments of unity, whether teaching simple songs to children in a remote area, or bringing comfort to those struggling in his community.
In 2002, Denis founded the Franciscan and Friends Mission, embodying the spirit of St. Francis of Assisi by dedicating his life to serving the most vulnerable. It was in these early years of his ministry that my husband and I met Denis. Largely through the experience of seeing how Denis touched the lives of so many people, we ourselves joined him in becoming members of the Order of Secular Franciscans. Denis loved to travel, bringing music and light to places in need—such as Haiti, Mexico, Guatemala, and beyond—always driven by a profound belief that love knows no boundaries. My husband Bill had the privilege of taking him on a mission trip to India in 2018, and will never forget how Denis opened his heart to people everywhere they went. Here in Alberta, Denis was a crucial force in Indigenous reconciliation, organizing art and music events that brought communities together and honored the rich cultural heritage of First Nations peoples. Denis's own journey of recovery from alcoholism became a powerful narrative of grace and transformation. Achieving 40 years of sobriety, he allowed God to use his own personal struggles to reach out to others, proving that no one is beyond the reach of compassion and healing. His home became a sanctuary for those in need, a living testament to his belief that true service means opening one's heart completely. Denis’ family was the cornerstone of his life, and he was a devoted grandfather who radiated joy and pride in his five grandsons. To know Denis was to understand that faith is about unconditional friendship. "Our job is to love, not judge," he would say, a philosophy that guided every aspect of his life and mission. Denis crossed over to be with his Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ on January 24, 2025, but his legacy lives on through the lives he touched, the music he shared, and the love he spread. In the words of one of his own songs, he was indeed "counting the days"—not with sadness, but with hope, joy, and an unwavering belief in the promise of paradise.
We celebrated the testimonies of three speakers whose lay ministries actively witness to our Catholic faith in the community, inviting us to learn, to serve, and to share the Word through faith-filled programs. It was inspiring to learn more about the mission and beauty of our lay ministries, each with their own charisms and focus, including education for children and young adults, the promotion of prayer and healing, and advocacy for the sanctity of life. We are truly blessed with a wide range of ministries that bring faith, hope, and encouragement to our community. It is clear that God is leading the work of our lay ministries as they offer opportunities to nurture each of us and fill our souls with His grace. He has given each a mission, whether it be enriching prayer life, serving those in need, nurturing spiritual formation, or walking with those who are hurting.
Our unified mission of invitation, welcome, and witness was a central theme of our time together. During our synodal dialogue, we reflected on the Word of God and His call to us as individuals, ministries, and the Church. As we hold tight to the vine of Christ, He calls each of us to be His hands, feet, and heart in reaching out to others. Our call as a Catholic community is to reach into the deep and broaden our circle so that each person we encounter is welcomed into the embrace of Christ. My dear brothers and sisters in Christ – Let’s Go Fishing!
In my heart, the Lord spoke that I may be called for single-blessedness or religious life. I remember crying out of fear and anxiety, but what I felt next was a sense of peace. I knew then that it was something that I should seriously consider. But I told the Lord He needed to show me the way, because if it was up to me, I would never dare do anything far beyond my comfort zone. It was a bold move on my part because I am that kind of person who is not courageous to try new things, let alone make major changes in life. He knew I needed some time while He prepared my heart, until I had the courage to say ‘YES’ to the call of Jesus, “Come, follow Me.” He used many people to help me along the way, to help me grow deeper in faith and love. I can identify two aspects of my life that led me to my religious vocation. First was joining Singles for Christ, CFC’s family ministry for single men and women aged 21 to 40 years old. It was where I first experienced being part of a faith community. There we had opportunities to deepen our knowledge and understanding of our Catholic faith through our small groups called households, retreats, assemblies, conferences and teaching nights. We were also highly encouraged to serve our Diocese, parishes and local communities through various volunteer opportunities.
 Sr. Charisse worked as St. Mark's parish secretary from 2014-2021 Second was my seven-year work experience as a secretary at St. Mark’s Parish in the Diocese of Calgary. It gave me the opportunity to witness, understand and appreciate the great blessing of the priest’s anointing. They had given up their lives for the sake of others. The clear answer to my discernment came when I learned that the Precious Blood Sisters pray for priests. We are called to carry them in our prayers as they carry God’s people, in all that they will have to give, suffer and live. On Thursday evenings, our Office of Readings is celebrated within an hour of Eucharistic Adoration – praying especially for our Priests and for Vocations to Priestly and Consecrated Life. I was officially accepted in October 2020, but my entrance was delayed by more than a year. First it was because of the pandemic and then the untimely death of my Mother in February 2021. We lost her 28 days after she was diagnosed with the rare and aggressive type of thyroid cancer. I had to retract my resignation from work to help my siblings pay off the accrued medical and funeral expenses in the Philippines. During this period, in the midst of uncertainties, profound sorrow and pain, I only did what I already knew would help, holding on in prayer. I am also indebted to those who have been praying for me. I am here because many people have been praying for me and with me. I am sustained by their powerful intercessions especially when I am struggling. I have learned that community life is a daily call to humility; religious life would be a daily commitment to do what God is asking of me, particularly those I find challenging. But these challenges are gifts, that even though it is hard for me at times, through God’s grace and by the love and support of my Sisters and other people, it is helping me grow in self-knowledge and in deeper understanding of our vows of chastity, poverty and obedience.
 First Profession of Vows, 2024. Sr. Charisse Cilos - fourth from the left. At the beginning of my two-month community experience in 2019, I was overwhelmed with fear and doubt. I just wanted to go home and not finish it. I kept asking God, “Why should I do this? How can I do this?” Thankfully, I came across the writings of our foundress, Mother Catherine Aurelia, “What is urging them to make this sacrifice? Ah, I understand. It is their hope of winning even one more soul for our Lord and glorifying the Precious Blood.” That gave me the strength to continue, and, up to now, I would remind myself of this in moments of difficulty and discouragement. “Why should I do this? How can I do this?” I know better now: It is not ‘I’ but the Lord. It is only by His grace that I am able to live the life of a religious. My First Profession was last October 12th, which also happened to be my birthday. What a remarkable day to celebrate God’s gift of life and His gift of vocation with those who have been part of my journey. All glory and praise to God forever! Written by Sr. Charisse Cilos for Faithfully. Photos courtesy of Precious Blood Sisters.
 St. Mark’s Parish is very pleased and proud that one of their parishioners who has been their secretary, Charisse Cilos, has gone through her profession of first vows. On behalf of St. Mark’s Parish. I would like to wish you on your profession of first vows that you are going to make from the Sisters of Precious Blood. We, the parishioners of Saint Mark, greatly appreciate your service to this parish for the seven years that you have worked here. The parishioners cherish all the memories that you have given and developed. They appreciate your service. You have made a greater choice, following the Lord and you wanted to make full commitment by taking up the vows today. Along with the parishioners I would like to wish you all the best and congratulate you for your great commitment to the Lord.” ~Fr. Venil D'Souza, St. Mark's Parish Pastor  Friar Aldin's First Vows, 2022 (Mount St. Francis, Cochrane)
When my husband Jim and I moved back to Calgary, I needed to find a way to meet like-minded, faith-filled women. I thought, what better way to do so than to join the CWL? So I did. At my first meeting with CWL, I volunteered to be the treasurer, and thus began my journey with CWL. Our council holds many activities and projects to help our parish, St. Peters; be it ministry masses where my League sisters serve as lectors, ushers, greeters, Extraordinary Ministers of Communion or sacristan; the fundraisers to help our beloved charities; collecting items for KARA or Elizabeth House, or offering an education bursary for girls going into post-secondary education. As I grew in my knowledge of the Catholic Women’s League, I realized that we were not just funeral lunch ladies, although this service that we provide to grieving families is very important to us. But we are much more than that. Our three pillars—Faith, Service, and Social Justice—perfectly describe what we are all about. We hold powerful prayer services, living rosaries, and annual spiritual retreats, to name a few. We advocate for important issues such as the sanctity of life, from conception to natural death. In 2012, I was honoured to attend the National CWL Convention in Edmonton, as a resolution that our own council researched and presented “to increase Employment Benefits for Adoptive Mothers” was adopted and then presented to the federal government. It has since come to fruition, as adoptive parents now receive the same benefits as parents who have their biological children. I was proud to serve as the President of St. Peter’s CWL council, as I loved working with and building relationships with my League sisters. As a servant leader, I grew in my faith, especially with the support of our spiritual advisors. In 2013, I was appointed diocesan CWL secretary by president Carol Schlachter. Jim said he’d support me, and my CWL journey with Calgary Diocesan Council began. I had no idea what I had agreed to, but it changed my life. Reflecting on this eleven-year journey, there were many highlights. Here are just a few:
Yes, there were sad moments too, when we bade farewell to two of our diocesan presidents, Carol Schlachter and Sharon Malec, as well as many other League sisters. And grieving alongside our sisters when they lost loved ones. Crying together is part of this amazing sisterhood we belong to.
 How did Christianity prosper when it was powerless, ridiculed, and persecuted? Early Church historian Henry Chadwick attributes Christianity’s quick spread to women because of Christianity’s belief in the equality of women and men before God. True, in the early years of the first millennium Christian women were still constrained to the social roles of homemaker and wife, but Christianity elevated the status of women through its doctrine that all are created in God’s image and redeemed by Christ, meaning all must treated with respect and dignity. The long-standing importance of women evangelists in the Church was visible in Medicine Hat during the 100-year anniversary celebration of the Catholic Women’s League (CWL) of St. Patrick’s Parish on Saturday, April 27th, 2024. A century after the chapter’s founding, Bishop McGrattan called CWL a gift to the Church and the community because of CWL’s constant witness, faith, and service. CWL remains steadfastly committed to social justice by promoting life from conception to its natural end. As current St.Patrick’s CWL President Anne Helfrich proudly proclaimed, “since 1924 the CWL chapter of Medicine Hat has helped women grow in faith by being the hands of Jesus.” Michelle Bien, a CWL member who joined two years ago told me, “CWL is for me. CWL fills a niche that nothing else does; it filled a gap in my life I didn’t even know was missing.” This succinctly expresses the heart of the diocesan renewal’s promise of You are called; You matter; You belong. St.Patrick’s CWL chapter creates a vibrant and radiant parish life by actively caring for the parish and the greater community of Medicine Hat by fundraising for charities like the Ronald McDonald House, Salvation Army, and the Mustard Seed, giving away clothing to those who need it, teaching children how to pray the rosary, and providing scholarships to students of Catholic schools. Bishop McGrattan’s homily at the celebratory Mass and his speech to over 100 CWL members and guests at the dinner following, discussed how lay movements witness daily to the Church’s call to charity by, “Taking out of the storehouse what is good and bringing it forth.” Bishop McGrattan concluded by issuing a challenge to grow vocations throughout the diocese by committing to 40 hours of Eucharistic adoration because Eucharistic adoration will be the most efficacious approach to diocesan renewal. As I listened to the legacy of this vibrant CWL chapter and Bishop McGrattan’s message for renewal, I was reminded of another woman who sparked a Catholic renewal – St. Juliana of Mont Carillon – a Flemish nun instrumental in establishing the Feast of Corpus Christi in the thirteenth century when many people did not have access to, or understand, the Eucharist. Prophets like St. Juliana appear in periods of crisis when the patterns of life have been disrupted or destroyed. Religious leaders and laypeople at the time recognized and admired the religious devotion of St. Juliana and her sisters who channeled their energy into Eucharistic adoration. The Feast of Corpus Christi quickly became one of the most important and popular feasts of the Church because of its focus on the central mystery of the faith, and because it expressed pride in community life and, of course, simply because it was fun, which was fully on display when members of the CWL enacted a spirited and laughter-filled “fashion show.” While popular music of the past decades played, CWL members donned period clothing and joyfully paid tribute to women of the past 100 years, one decade at a time. President Helfrich, who revived the chapter after the pandemic at Fr. Roque’s request, gave the audience a humorous history lesson and noted major moments in Church history over the past 100 years. Worship, laughter, and frivolity merged into a joyous whole, showing how to bring the love of Christ into community life. If the Church’s past is any predictor of its future, women (such as the century of women from the CWL chapter of St. Patrick’s in Medicine Hat) will play a leading role in the Church’s renewal. They will lead the renewal through service to their community, Eucharistic devotion, and they will have fun doing so! “CWL is a great place to live the Catholic faith,” President Helfrich said. “CWL has supported me and what I stand for, filled my life with friendships, and gave me opportunities to help people.” Congratulations to all the members of St. Patrick’s CWL, especially the organizing committee. May God continue to bless the next generation of the Catholic Women’s League in Medicine Hat!  Fr. Rogue Pereira, Deacon Robert Riesling, and St. Patrick's Parish CWL President, Anne Helfrich Written by Jason Openo on behalf of St. Patrick's Parish, Medicine Hat for Faithfully. Photos courtesy of Jason Openo.
 St. Benedict of Nursia I was recently asked what is an ‘Oblate of St. Benedict’ and what does this entail for an ordinary lay person? Oblates of St. Benedict are Christians, lay or ordained, who, committed to the living of their faith and while continuing to live their own state in life, desire to make their own the values expressed by Benedictine monastic life. Core to Benedictine spirituality are a balance of prayer and work, loving relationships with others, and active participation in the sacramental life of the church. In our Diocese, we have active groups of Oblates in Calgary and Medicine Hat who for 30 years have been spiritually associated with Mount Angel Abbey in St. Benedict, Oregon. Ron Kaczmar is one such Oblate and his story of encountering Benedictine Spirituality is featured below. Submitted by Mark Richard, Oblates of St. Benedict members in Calgary. Mark lives in Calgary with his wife Patricia. He is an active member of St. Michael Catholic Community and involved in faith formation, outreach programs, and providing spiritual direction. Mark has been a Benedictine Oblate since 2009.
 “Help me!” Out of a dark bathroom in a long term care home, I heard a plaintive cry and froze. I was there to bring the Eucharist, nothing more. I turned to seek out an attendant and heard again, “Don’t leave me!” Heart pounding, I crept forward, identified myself loudly and turned on the lights to find an elderly woman on the toilet. With shaking hands I cleaned her and helped her to stand up. She leaned against me as we washed our hands. Secretly I thought, “I have wiped Christ’s bottom.” Jesus said that whatever we do for the least of his brethren we do for him. This is true whether we cook for our family, give alms to the poor or serve at Mass. However, it might be particularly true when we are called to move out of our comfort zone and give more than we intended to. For example, when we offer to buy a street person a coffee and he chooses a whole meal with it. Or we call to check in on a friend and she spills out her woes for an hour. When we give of ourselves we prefer to have a measure of control over the experience but that is not how God gives of himself. God gave his only son, and Jesus gave his lifeblood for us. God continues to give constantly and completely, so we are called to do the same. This kind of self-emptying service is what Pope Francis called “the art of accompaniment”. “The Church will have to initiate everyone – priests, religious and laity- into this “art of accompaniment” which teaches us to remove our sandals before the sacred ground of the other.” (Evangelii Gaudium 169) I am coming to understand The Art of Accompaniment through a series of talks given by Fr. Tim Boyle at St. Martha’s Parish in Lethbridge . So far Fr. Boyle has noted that accompaniment is not quite the same as caregiving, although it might include that. To accompany someone is to first of all recognize that God is with them. As guest speaker Reno Guimond said, “We are not bringing God to anyone. God has been there long before we show up. We go to see where God is.” Besides recognizing God in each person, we also need to understand how God works in the world. Fr. Boyle encouraged his listeners to imagine God “delighting” in the world as he created it. “God has invested himself in creation,” Fr. Boyle said. “This is not a one-time event but an evolving artwork. If God accompanies us as an artist not as an engineer then God is vulnerable to the unfolding of Creation… God suffers in the process… God chooses to spend himself on creation.” This form of sacrificial support was expressed ultimately by God becoming human and Jesus’ death and resurrection. For us, sacrificial giving of ourselves is often a challenge. Society dictates that one must preserve oneself, must learn to ‘Say No’, and ration one’s time and energy. Yet Creation shows otherwise. Fr. Boyle used the examples of salmon making death runs upstream to spawn, and sunflowers drying up to produce seeds for food and for procreation. “Like salmon and sunflowers, every creature, in order to reach their full potential, needs to empty themselves out”, Fr. Boyle said. So how is this achieved in practical terms? How does one accompany another person, whether continuously or when called upon? It begins when we accept God’s accompaniment of us. This happens through grace which Fr. Boyle suggests is “like manna – something given by God every day which cannot be stored up but only taken advantage of that day.” Grace is not a weapon or superpower, it doesn’t enhance our abilities. Indeed it requires us to first accept that we have no ability without God. We are flawed and vulnerable beings made precious by God’s acceptance. It is God’s grace that sustains us, sanctifies us. When we understand this dynamic we are better prepared to handle the vulnerability of others, to accept it, and handle it gently. Since my first incident of extreme vulnerability in long-term care, my ministry partner and I have been called upon to assist a few others at their times of greatest need, in life and even approaching death. While I still feel my heart pounding each time, the experiences have been deeply humbling. I know God is helping me learn how to cherish the sacred ground of others.
 Men from the God Squad and several Catholic churches in the Calgary Diocese recently came together to give an old church a facelift in Brocket, Alberta, located on the Piikani Nation between Fort Macleod and Pincher Creek. The work done at St. Paul’s was more than just some exterior painting and repairs. It was also symbolic. Deacon Tom O’Toole, who is assigned to St. Paul’s, said the parish is a community of elders and it doesn’t have all the resources within the Nation to handle some of these bigger projects. “We think it’s an opportunity in the spirit of truth and reconciliation to show the universality of the Church in its beauty and diversity,” said O’Toole, who has been at the parish for about six or seven years. “They did some of the harder work that we were not able to accomplish on our own but we gave them something too. “We paid them with our affection. We fed them. They brought their own food. But we participated in that. And our elders were here. It wasn’t just a simple act of splashing paint on a building. It rolled up into a bigger purpose which is to bring all God’s people together and show the beauty. These people who came from St. Peter’s, I’ve known them for a long time. So I’m not surprised how fantastic they are and a few of them have come to help before so they’re not a stranger here either. That to me is how relationship is built and how truth and reconciliation makes its way around the bases so to speak.” During his ministry as a Deacon, O’Toole has also been assigned in the past to St. Peter’s. Sean Lynn, who spearheads the God Squad organization, said about a dozen volunteers came out in late August to do some work on the aging St. Paul’s building. “It was a great opportunity for us to put into action a love for the Church and reach out to the First Nations’ community showing that we want to work with them, we want to start those conversations, we want to be present in their community. And the Church, it’s a way of reopening the dialogue with them,” explained Lynn.  Lynn also wanted to give a big shout out to Dan Lebsack of Cougar Painting, who joined the work crew for the St. Paul’s initiative, offering his professional experience, advice and expertise as well as his painting skills. “They did great work. A great service that we all appreciate. I announced it in the church,” said Rev. Roy Jayamaha, of St. Paul’s. “We really appreciated their great efforts. It was a wonderful thing. They put their heart and soul and work for our community. It was a great thing. “We believe that the door to salvation is always open and so are the doors to our church. Our mission is to be fully devoted to Jesus by opening our arms to those in search of the truth. We show God’s love and concern for our fellow humanity at every opportunity. Through works of charity and opening our doors to listen and love, we feel that we are walking in the footsteps of Jesus Christ.” The God Squad, a Catholic men’s organization, whose vision through the guidance of St. Joseph, is to form and strengthen men, inspiring them to embrace God’s vocation in their lives. Other volunteers included people from St. Peter’s, Holy Spirit and St. James churches in Calgary as well as St. Mary’s in Brooks. Father Roy was originally from Sri Lanka and arrived in the Calgary Diocese in 2014 after having worked as a missionary in Pakistan for 38 years. Bishop Frederick Henry appointed him pastor of St. Paul’s in January 2016. “My prayer for this community is that together we will rediscover the joy of the Gospel, bringing many people back to church by our personal witness. The youth and children are our future and together we must strive to find new ways and means to share God’s love for creation. My faith tells me, it is the work of the Lord we are doing and He will guide our steps forward,” said Father Roy.
 An inspiring grotto housing the statue of Mary seems only fitting for the backyard of Elizabeth House, a transitional housing program supported by the Diocese which welcomes pregnant and parenting women who need a safe place to live. Mother Mary is symbolic of womanhood and motherhood and Elizabeth House staff are hopeful that the resilient women who access the house and services provided there will find the grotto to be a place of healing and hope as embodied in Our Lady of Guadalupe. Dave Curry, who built the grotto with the help of Peter Dugandzic, shared that the project was meaningful to him because the statue of Our Lady of Guadalupe holds pro-life significance. He spoke about the hard work of constructing the beautiful brick grotto in the summer heat last year and how it was recently completed. Dave said that it was “beautiful doing something for Elizabeth House and for Mary”. Dave is a member of the Knights of Columbus Don Bosco Council at St. Peter’s Roman Catholic Church and built the grotto with the help and support from the Knights of Columbus. Elizabeth House has capacity to house seven women and their babies. This program offers resources, support, and a safe place for women to start their motherhood journey. Elizabeth House states that through their program courageous mothers are empowered to work towards a transition to independent living as well as pursue the education or job skills training necessary to help set the foundation for a bright future. Marin Lepp, an Elizabeth House staff, said the grotto and statue speak to the “the incredible support and spiritual foundation that this place has for all of the women who we welcome from every background, every walk of life. This represents strength in womanhood and in motherhood and that looks so different for all of our ladies based on their circumstances.” Marin called the the grotto a grounding place, and a guide in Elizabeth House’s approach to reconciliation for Indigenous peoples. She reflected that at the centre of the work is “motherhood, womanhood and the strength around that.” The special garden area where Our Lady of Guadalupe has taken up residence was blessed recently by Bishop William McGrattan of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Calgary. “I think the legacy of Elizabeth House is something that we’ve received from the religious and I think it’s something that allows us to witness to and continue the sanctity of human life and to know that we’re helping families, especially women who want to make this choice. It’s counter-cultural and I think the Church needs to be present and allow them to go forward with this particular support that they need,” said Bishop McGrattan.   Bishop McGrattan emphasized the importance of making sure that Elizabeth House continues. He stated that the program has important donors and volunteer associations who value and support the work of Elizabeth House and stated that this work is “an important commitment as well. Just the experience of them being here supporting these young women and their children is something. They know they’re living their faith.” Bishop McGrattan also reflected on the significance of Mary as a symbol of grace, joy, and hope for all. He stated that “First of all, she is Christ’s mother. The mother of the visible and the image of the invisible God. But she is also the image and the model of the Church and she is an exemplar. In Mary, the Church joyously contemplates the image of all that the Church itself desires and hopes wholly to be. The Church recognizes in Mary the model of the path and the practice it must follow to reach complete union with Christ.” Bishop McGrattan hoped that when people from Elizabeth House are outside in the backyard the grotto the statue of Mary will catch their eye and that “they might be drawn into a moment of reflection, a moment of prayer. And that’s what images and statues are for. They draw our attention, they focus our thoughts and our sentiments. Often we formulate the words of prayer. This is how I think it will be an important statue here in this backyard of Elizabeth House,” he said. “We know that those who come here in this yard and are able to pray, and contemplate, will ponder as Mary did in the silence of her heart the truth and the gift of human life and the gift and choice that they’ve made. We pray and hope that this will be a time and a moment where they see the hand of God through our Blessed Mother that they have made a choice for life and that we are supporting them.” Written by Mario Toneguzzi & Elizabeth House Staff for Faithfully. Photos courtesy of Marin Lepp.
 God Squad Canada started in Calgary with four police officers coming together in prayer. It has since grown into an apostolate over the last 25 years that influences men around the world. Through the guidance of St Joseph, God Squad’s vision is to form and strengthen men, inspiring them to embrace God’s vocation in their lives. They strive to encourage men positively amidst today’s darkness of spiritual famine and moral confusion. God Squad wishes to reverse the breakdown of families by serving and nurturing men of all ages to be leaders in their families and communities. Their ministry brings men together by various initiatives such as BBQ Outreach, motorcycle rides, disc golf, or by hosting an annual Men's Conference. During the Year of St Joseph, God Squad was able to stream their conference online and reach men throughout the world. Many men over the years have been inspired to show the same servant leadership to their families that Christ has for His bride, the Holy Catholic and Apostolic Church because of these conferences. Men have discerned marriage; others the priesthood. (See “How Many of You” in God Squad’s Newsletter for November 2021 and read about Father Troy Nguyen's experience at a God Squad Conference). Others have found the strength to persevere or to take on new challenges, or to find new meaning and hope in their faith. Some men have been sent by their wives and are now eternally grateful! Some come looking for answers. Most come just to be with other like minded men. Men need mentoring. Men need to mentor others. Men need to lead. In an interview with Mario Toneguzzi on Faith Spotlight, Sean Lynn, president and founder of God Squad Canada says that this year’s theme was inspired by Avi Kaplan’s song “Change on the Rise" and St. John Paul II’s new springtime in his encyclical Redemptoris Missio, long before the current political winds and discourse in the media. Inspired by reflection, Sean recognizes, as farmers do, that the springtime is a time of hard work. As “we’re coming out of two years of struggle and strife” says Constable Lynn, “we need to work hard at coming together and work for healing” and building up the Kingdom of God. Consider giving the men in your life a ticket to “Change on the Rise; Ushering in the New Springtime!”. This year God Squad has the pleasure of hosting amazing speakers: Jeff Cavins, Brett Powell, and Bishop William McGrattan, who will celebrate the Mass. All men in the Diocese (and beyond) are invited to come for the Conference at St. Michael's Church in Calgary, on March 18 & 19, 2022. You can register to attend in person or to watch via livestream. Bring your son, your father, your brother, your cousin, your friend, or even a stranger! Consider hosting a viewing party (Contact [email protected] if you need ideas on hosting a viewing party), or to host the viewing party in your parish. And as a bonus, get free access to Chris Stefanik’s “Rise A 30 – Day Challenge” worth $45 - after you register. Ten Reasons to join God Squad Men's Conference this year
Submitted by God Squad Canada
 Do you know that Christian-themed Christmas stamps are an example of successful resolutions by the Catholic Women's League (CWL) of Canada? National CWL Resolution 1959.12 resolved "that The Catholic Women's League of Canada in 39th annual national convention assembled at Saint John, N.B., request the federal government to plan a Christmas stamp depicting a “Nativity Scene” to be issued in Canada annually during the month of December." This was followed by their Resolution 1980.11 which resolved that "The national council of The Catholic Women's League of Canada, in 60th annual national convention assembled, do commend Canada Post for the issues of postage stamps with religious themes and do recommend that each year one or more of the Christmas stamps issued have such a theme." Resolution 2005.01 resolved "that the national council of The Catholic Women's League of Canada, in 85th annual national convention assembled, urge Canada Post to include a Nativity-related theme in its future Christmas stamp issues." All of these resolutions were archived in 2016 because the action requested has been accomplished. Canadians have had a Christmas-themed stamp for several years now and deeply grateful for the effort of CWL in the process. Canada Post began the tradition of featuring Nativity art on stamps in 1965, with an issue featuring the Gifts of the Magi. In the years since, the Nativity Scene has been portrayed in children’s illustrations (1970, 1975) stained glass windows (1976, 1997), gouache illustrations (1977), early Renaissance paintings (1978), icons (1988), Aboriginal art (2002), and more. The stamps have provided excellent opportunities to celebrate the birth of Jesus through Canadian art. Booklets of the 2020 Nativity stamp, the 2019 The Magi, the 2017 Adoration of the Shepherds and 2018 "Away in a Manger" are still available on the Canada Post website.  2021 Nativity Stamps Celebrate Christmas with this booklet of 12 permanent domestic rate stamps from the 2021 Christmas (Angels) stamp issue. This year’s Christmas issue is inspired by the angels who served as messengers in the Nativity story. The stamp features a simple line depiction of a Christmas angel on a serene white background. Montréal-based artist Stéphane Huot and illustrator Luc Melanson, who resides near Montréal, produced simple line drawings on a crisp white background, evoking purity and peace through the Christmas season. Beloved symbols at Christmas, angels played an integral part in the Nativity story. In the Bible, these celestial beings, whose name derives from the Greek word for messenger, often serve as benevolent intermediaries between God and humanity. According to the Gospel of Luke, it was the archangel Gabriel who told Mary she would give birth to Jesus, “Son of the Most High,” and when the day arrived, it was an angel who announced the good news to shepherds tending their flocks in the region. A choir of angels singing God’s praise appeared around the messenger angel, and then the awed shepherds departed for Bethlehem to worship the newborn king. (Source: Canada Post) These stamps are available in outlets as well as through the Canada Post website. Some nativity stamps from previous years are still available through the Canada Post website.
 St. John the Baptist is one of my favorite saints. I even gave our eldest son the name John for his second name. And I chose St. John the Baptist as his patron saint. I consider St. John the Baptist as the First Evangelizer who proclaimed Jesus as the Messiah. He directed everyone to Jesus. In one painting he is seen looking at others while pointing his finger to Jesus. What an apt depiction of this great saint! I dreamt that one day I can be like John the Baptist who would point others to Jesus. And lo, and behold, that time came in 2020 when after a week of training in the Philippines I returned to Calgary to take on my service role as Live Christ, Share Christ Mission Coordinator. The Live Christ, Share Christ (LCSC) Mission provides opportunities for the Catholic lay faithful to MEET Christ, LIVE Christ, SHARE Christ. Through their formation programs, LCSC makes the Gospel narration of the visit of the Virgin Mary to her cousin, Elizabeth come to life: When Elizabeth heard Mary’s greeting, the baby leaped in her womb, and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit. (Lk 1:41) Just as God had been faithful and kept His promises to Mary, Elizabeth, and John, we are reminded that God likewise reveals His wondrous works to each of us as well. Even in the midst of lockdown and quarantine, hand washing and masking, self-isolation and social distancing during this pandemic, God constantly draws us to Himself and shows us that He is, indeed, our Father. MEET Christ through the Word of God I leap for joy because despite the pandemic through God’s grace we launched the Liturgical Bible Study (LBS) in the Calgary Catholic School District using virtual technology. Through zoom meetings, we guided high school students in finding the connections between the Sunday liturgical readings. They discovered that the first, the second, and the Gospel readings are interrelated and have a common message that gives it unity. Through LBS the students realized that the Bible is not a mere historical document. They soon realized that the stories of our faith ancestors in the Bible shed light to present life situations. From the insights they gathered throughout the session, the students were able to understand the pandemic in the context of the scripture readings.
SHARE Christ to The Ends of the Earth I leap for joy because despite the pandemic through God’s grace us we will be fully engaged in the new evangelization, beyond borders and across boundaries. In our first LCS alone we had participants from New Zealand, USA, Canada and the Philippines. Life in Christ means we should let Jesus continue His work of salvation through us, with us, and in us. The Catholic lay faithful are called to be missionaries through the power of the Holy Spirit. We are all called to be workers in God’s vineyard. Through virtual technology the opportunities to share Christ are boundless. Together, let us leap for joy as we MEET Christ, LIVE Christ, and SHARE Christ.
 As I put away the last of the Christmas decorations and sweep up the tinsel amidst the fallen pine needles of the tree, my thoughts are turning towards the coming weeks. During the past Christmas season, we’ve been celebrating and contemplating the birth of Our Lord and Saviour. We’ve decorated our homes with festive cheer, brightened our mantles with Nativity scenes, and filled our tables with delicious things to eat and drink. Now we enter into Ordinary Time of the Church, and for some, this can seem like a return to the mundane. As a member of Opus Dei, I welcome this time of the year and see it as an opportunity to begin again, to find greater meaning and fulfilment in my ordinary, daily work and life, and most of all to grow in my friendship with Christ. Everyday brings a new struggle to transform the little things of ordinary life into an encounter with Our Lord ... it starts when my alarm goes off at 5 and I welcome the new day in which to serve Him. It’s my favourite time of day, I’m the only one up and I can spend some quiet time in mental prayer and spiritual reading. I usually order my day with hours of work making sure there’s time for God throughout. One of those times is daily Mass where again I offer my entire day and talk to Our Lord in the depths of my heart. I also try and make it outside, even when it’s cold, to shake the cobwebs out of my head, go for a walk and say the rosary. While meditating on the mysteries of Our Lord’s life, I’m also able to appreciate the beauty of God’s creation, the crunch of snow under my boots, the roll of the foothills meeting the mountains, the big blue Alberta skies. Back in the house, there are meals to make, rooms to tidy, paperwork to be done. Yet each duty brings with it an opportunity to pray for someone, to do my work well, and to make it a pleasing offering to God. Making time for friends is a must and during this pandemic, it has been a challenge. However, FaceTime and Zoom with family and friends brighten the day. There are so many lonely people out there just waiting to hear a friendly voice, someone’s laughter, to comfort and encourage them. I end the day thanking our Lord for all the blessings, seeing Him in everyone I met or talked to; I ask forgiveness for those times I did not please Him, knowing that tomorrow brings a new day, a new beginning. Time with family and friends always brings cheer to these wintry months. Our family welcomed the winter season with great anticipation, as we enjoy many of the winter sports. My husband Brian is an excellent skier. He put all four sons on skis before they were two. And if we weren’t skiing we were tobogganing down the nearby hills or snowshoeing in the back 40. If you live in Canada you’ve got to learn to embrace the snow and cold. Bundle up and get outside. You will find all of the Siray’s outdoors during the winter months. We also discovered that it brought us closer together as a family ... lots of laughter, good conversations, and praying together. Now that Fr. Nathan is in Canmore, it provides an excellent opportunity to make a pilgrimage to Our Lady of the Rockies, to pray and to see our son. His vocation to the priesthood has been such a blessing for our family ... always encouraging and lifting us up when needed, joining in the family celebrations when he’s able, playing with his nieces and nephews. Thus this Ordinary Time in the Church is anything but ordinary, it’s a time of grace and thanksgiving. A time to walk with Our Lord and his disciples while meditating on the Gospels. One must strive to listen to His words and deepen one's knowledge and friendship with Him. A time to care for those around you, to smile, to give encouragement to those in need. A time to look for joy and be optimistic about the future. A time to discover the richness of your ordinary life.
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Catholic Pastoral Centre Staff and Guest Writers Archives
January 2026
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